Be very, very quiet I’m hunting rabbits!

Thursday

Apr 11, 2013 at 12:01 AMApr 11, 2013 at 11:57 AM

Bravo to Pender County for taking the initiative to begin the process to allow silencers/suppressors on hunting rifles during hunting season. Not only does this show a giant leap toward a common sense approach to noise (which none of us enjoy) but it also offers a glimpse into the future of cooperation.

Dorothy Royal

Bravo to Pender County for taking the initiative to begin the process to allow silencers/suppressors on hunting rifles during hunting season. Not only does this show a giant leap toward a common sense approach to noise (which none of us enjoy) but it also offers a glimpse into the future of cooperation.

For too many years silencers and suppressors have been given a bad rap by mob-related hit men. These accessories can prevent hearing loss and keep neighbors on friendly terms when one may be an avid shooter and the other, not.

The truth about these mysterious items is quite simple.

In the State of North Carolina, a law abiding citizen or a Trust may acquire a silencer (primarily used for .22 caliber weapons) or a suppressor (which lowers the sound signature making the sound more muffled and less offensive). The process to acquire these items is an extensive and time consuming one where impatient people need not apply!

Should a person wish to purchase a suppressor/silencer, the first step is to find the right item for their needs. There is a ton of research out there on the internet, but as usual — buyer beware. Always ask around and get real recommendations from local Class 3 FFL Dealers.

A sample purchase may be as follows:

· Suppressor for a .22 caliber pistol: $200 — item must be paid for at time of order

· Transfer fee paid to the Class 3 dealer when paperwork is completed (ATF Form 4 for individuals): $150

· Government tax stamp to be submitted with AFT Form 4 by purchaser: $200

· Expected wait time once paperwork is completed and submitted: 6 to 8 months.

The good news is that the newer suppressors are designed to be disassembled and cleaned after 2,000 to 3,000 rounds, increasing the longevity of the item. In years past, these items had a shorter life expectancy.

Suppressors designed for a higher caliber rifle (.223 etc.) may range from $600 to $1,000, which may add up quick if you choose to hunt with more than one rifle.

For the folks who would like to tone down the noise a bit, remember that subsonic ammo is generally available in common ammo like .22 caliber and 9mm and can reduce the sound signature from 20 to 60 percent.

Remember, knowledge is power.

Dorothy Royal is the owner of Surf City Guns and Ammo, mother of two wonderful children, ringmaster of a herd of miniature ponies and an avid member of the Surf City Writers Group and Topsail Book Club.

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